Tensions were high today as more forklift operators from around the world battled it out at the IMHX 2016 as day two of RTITB’s International Operator of the Year competition continued, sponsored by Unicarriers and McCue.

Following yesterday’s impressive efforts, ten more drivers tested their operator skills, knowledge of safety and overall professionalism to win one of ten places at RTITB’s International Operator of the Year Grand Final next year.

Each competitor completed four tests – two practical assessments (Fun Factory and Explosive Mixer sponsored by Pyroban, DOLAV and Racking & Storage Solutions), a knowledge assessment (sponsored by Transaid), and successful completion of a pre-use inspection (sponsored by TruckLOG). RTITB continue to use pre-use inspections in each cycle of their Operator of the Year competitions to raise awareness of this crucial aspect of daily operation. 18% of incidents are caused by mechanical failure, which could be reduced by operators ensuring this imperative task is completed each time a machine is utilised.

The day concluded with Samantha Tyson of PPG, the first ever female grand finalist, being announced as the overall winner of today’s heat. Thomas Birkbeck of KP Snacks was declared the runner up and is the youngest ever competitor at the age of 18. Both will move forward to the Grand Final, run by RTITB in early 2017.

The RTITB Operator of the Year competition began in 2008 and has evolved each cycle to be bigger and better than ever. 2016 marks the first International competition, which saw operators from three continents enter, and competitors include an increased number in female operators and the winner of the first India Operator of the Year 2015.

The competition will continue throughout the duration of the IMHX event, ending on Friday 16th September. For further information on the competition, click here, or follow on Twitter (@opofyear) or Facebook – RTITB Operator of the Year Competition. Visit stand 9A40 to watch the heats in action.